The Cook Islands joined over 1000 delegates at the Diplomatic Conference to conclude a new treaty relating to intellectual property, genetic resources, and associated traditional knowledge, which took place at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in Geneva, Switzerland, from 13-24 May 2024.
The Cook Islands became a member state of WIPO in 2016 and joined 11 other Pacific Island Countries in this important forum. The Geneva-based team of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat provided technical and legal advice to the Pacific delegations, allowing them to strengthen national and regional participation throughout the long hours of negotiations.
Protecting genetic resources and traditional knowledge in the Pacific is essential for preserving cultural heritage, promoting sustainable development, enhancing resilience to climate change, and ensuring fair economic benefits for local communities. It is a key component of maintaining the rich biodiversity and unique cultural identities of Pacific Island nations. This priority has long been recognized by the region, with the development of two regional model laws with the support of SPREP and SPC, which are currently being replicated into domestic jurisdictions across the Pacific.
Ms. Sandrina Thondoo, Director for Treaties, Multilaterals, and Oceans from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, remarked, "As we join in the success of concluding this landmark treaty, the Cook Islands is prepared to step up its engagements in this space, with the technical support and guidance from WIPO."
On the final day of the negotiation, over 130 countries signed the Final Act, including the Cook Islands. It was encouraging to witness over 20 countries, including three Pacific Island countries, sign the adopted treaty text, signaling their strong intention to ratify the instrument. The treaty requires 15 ratifications to enter into force.
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